Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 16 (BG 6.16) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

# BG 6.16 — Commentary Translation Having understood the detailed description of the means and the goal outlined above, it is no wonder if someone finds themselves unable to achieve the prescribed objective. It is not merely a matter of lacking desire or effort in the seeker; even with sincere intention and exertion, the attainment of the goal may seem difficult. What is the hidden cause that unknowingly draws the practitioner away from their aim? No scientific principle is complete without explaining the precautions necessary for success in practice. In the verses that follow, the potential pitfalls on the path of meditation yoga are indicated—obstacles from which the seeker must strive to protect themselves. For the success of meditation, the governing principle is this: excess in all things must be abandoned. In other words, one must renounce excess in the activities and enjoyments of life. Moderation and self-restraint are the keys to success. Lack of restraint produces mental distraction, and the harmony of an integrated personality is disrupted. Therefore, moderation in eating, activity, and sleep is essential. The Blessed Lord teaches that yoga is unattainable for one who eats excessively or fasts excessively. Here, "eating" does not mean merely the consumption of food through the mouth alone, but the reception of sense objects through all the senses. This word encompasses the perception of objects, the emotions of the mind, and the thoughts of the intellect. In brief, the principle for the yoga practitioner should be this: without destroying the animal kingdom for personal gain alone, one should consume only what is naturally obtained at the proper time—and only in such measure that the stomach is not burdened. It is rightly stated here that excessive sleep or excessive wakefulness is not conducive to yoga. Here too, wise moderation should be the governing rule. It is possible that a person of limited understanding, not grasping the intent of this verse, might ask: for whom does yoga become easily attainable? In answer to this question, the Lord speaks.